Ludhiana: In a joint statement issued today, the Panch Pardhani Panthak Jatha, comprising Panth Sewak personalities, expressed grave concern over the growing trend of police encounters in Punjab, particularly the recent surge in the killing of young individuals. The Jatha emphasized that portraying these deaths as “successes” poses a serious threat to human rights in the state.

The statement noted that Punjab is currently experiencing a sensitive phase, exacerbated by international political and geopolitical instability. Amidst this situation, the Indian state has intensified its control over the public, primarily through the strengthened powers of law enforcement agencies, especially the police. The Jatha criticized the ongoing efforts by the central government to malign the Sikh struggle by associating it with drug abuse and terrorism.

What is even more disturbing, the statement added, is the increasing number of young individuals being arrested and subsequently killed in alleged police encounters rather than being presented before courts for a fair trial. The recurring narrative of “escape attempts” or “attacks during arrest” often ends in the death or severe injury of these individuals, highlighting a dangerous misuse of power.

The Panthak Jatha called upon human rights organizations, civil society groups, and concerned citizens to take serious note of these incidents. They urged everyone to collectively oppose such tactics that undermine fundamental human rights and to stand together to protect the dignity and rights of individuals in Punjab.